A Dive Bar Diamond in the Rough!
Brace yourselves, everyone, for the whimsical world that is Oside Bar & Grill, where every visit is a love letter to the eclectic charm of dive bars!
Let's begin with Sheena, the leading lady of Oside, whose top-notch service would put even the most seasoned concierges to shame. Her welcoming presence alone is worth a visit.
Mondays at Oside promise the fun of free pool. Sure, the balls can be a tad sticky, the tables are charmingly unlevel, and the cue sticks may remind you of a Salvador Dali painting, but it's all a part of Oside's unique appeal. You're not just playing pool; you're embarking on an adventure.
On the day of my visit, the grill was taking a much-needed break, meaning no burgers. Instead, I was introduced to their "Buffalo style" chicken tenders. Drenched in Frank's hot sauce, these fiery treats were surprisingly tasty and proved that Oside can handle a curveball.
While it's a beer and wine-only joint, they do have a sweet surprise: a robust cider on tap, bursting with a bold 12.5% ABV. It was too sweet for my palette, but it could be a delightful find for those craving a non-beer alternative.
The back patio is where Oside truly shines, turning amateur wrestling events into community celebrations. It's a refreshing change from your standard bar and a testament to the unique spirit of Oside.
Overall, Oside Bar & Grill is like that catchy song you can't help but hum along to. It's got the classic dive bar vibes, a communal atmosphere, and a dash of delightful unpredictability. It's an easy-going local watering hole, perhaps not your top choice for a date night, but perfect for a relaxed evening with friends.
So, here's a toast to Oside. With a bit more polishing, this diamond in the rough could shine...
ย ย ย Read moreSeptember 6th a Friday @10p. I approached the door , I'm wearing a black Pardes hat with white SD logo on front. Security, only one at the door, so he knows who im talking about, proceed to single me out, first an foremost, My friend I was with had an original SD hat on and was told nothing inreagards to removing his hat. I was told the Owner did not want SD hats in the building. YOURE IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY!!! just in case you weren't aware you have PADRES FANS AROUND THE WAY. As I'm being told to take off my hat, I'm looking at 2 guys inside with hats on. I said what about them, why are you only asking me? I wass told, by security that they were associated with blah, blah, blah. So you guys are making exceptions, ok?. Since I'm not affiliated with anyone, I'm screwed?. My friend said that by the end of the night the place was full of SD hats. I've never been sooo embarrassed trying to walk into an establishment until now. The security made a situation out of nothing, gave off hostile vibes, and kept coming up into my personal space making me really uncomfortable. Almost in a treating gesture. All for the fact I was wearing a SD hat. Mind you I have been to this establishment before. Not once have they had an issue. I don't look menacing. Maybe that's why security made it an issue with just myself. I felt singled out, treated poorly, disrespected, and embarrassed. MY FRIENDS AND I, WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN THIS ESTABLISHNENT AGAlN. As long as you have the same Fate keeper in front. Padres fans stay away from this place APPARENTLY no SD hats allowed inside. That security needs A reality check and a new opportunity, in maybe...
ย ย ย Read moreAnother 5 star review for this little spot! In from out of town, we were looking for a low key place with darts and were led here. When I pulled it up on Yelp, I was surprised about (and skeptical of!) the near-perfect reviews, so proceeded with caution.
We were greeted immediately by the sole guy working, who we later learned is Rigo. This guy is impressive! He ran the bar entirely by himself, and we were in awe as we watched him work. No one ever went long qithout being checked on, he knew all his regulars, made engaging conversation, ran tabs, cleaned up, and even cooked the food himself. I've been in so many places where I received only mediocre service with several staff members working!
Based on the reviews, we decided to try the burger. As far as bar fare goes, it was indeed a very good burger, and so inexpensive!
Physically, this bar is pretty small, but they still fit in quite a few games, such as the aforementioned darts, pool tables, a punching bag boxing game, and a jukebox that also plays music videos. Really cool vibe, and I am planning to stop in again before heading home!
Quick note - It's essentially beer & wine only, with just one specific vodka they keep on hand...
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